2017 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor Review, Release Date

The 2017 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor truck enters its last phase of testing ahead of its release date in 2016. It made its debut at the 2015 Detroit Auto Show. It is no doubt that the SVT Raptor is among the most required variations of the F-150, and is seen as one of the most adequately prepared in its lineup.

2017 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor Design

The new 2017 Ford F-150 SVT will be available in three cabin styles, namely: the regular, Super and Super-Crew, and it is going to be about 6 inches wider than the current base model. The base model and other versions are expected to be made of light materials such as aluminum. Steel will also be used and the reconstruction of this pickup truck is set to change the architecture of the uni-body.

By using light materials, the 2017 Ford Raptor is set to experience a weight decrease of up to 700 lbs, which is expected to positively impact its acceleration, fuel economy, towing and its braking. The new model will also come with a few exterior modifications compared to its predecessor. These upgrades include a bigger chrome grille with large FORD letters over it, and revised headlamps. The truck will ride on a set of 17-inch wheel wrapped in BFGoodrich All-Terrain TA tires.

Interior Styling, Equipment

The interior of the 2017 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor shares the same platform with the 2015 F-150 diesel, and major components, both from its interior and exterior have notable similarity with those of the 2014 Atlas Concept. Its interior will also constitute a center-stacked build with an 8-inch touch screen, infotainment display with SAT-NAV and installed MyFord System. It will also have two cup holders, a central tunnel and a rear gear selector on the left similar to the Atlas concept model.

EcoBoost Engine, Specs, Performance

Under the hood, the new 2017 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor will come equipped with an upgraded 3.5L V-6 EcoBoost engine that is going to be more powerful than the current 411-hp 6.2L V-8 unit and will offer better fuel economy. No official figures, but it is expected to return about 450 horsepower and more than 430 pound-feet of torque. It is said that this new engine will be paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and 4WD system. Also, a new dual exhaust system will contribute to the better performance.

Ford Raptor Release Date, Price

The U.S. automaker recently confirmed that there won’t be a model for the current model year. The pickup truck was presented at the 2015 Detroit Auto Show, and its release date is expected to be in fall of 2016. The price of the 2017 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor is expected to be slightly higher than that of the current model in the market, which is priced at $51,000.